RUC nominations: Evaluation and management codes are among those submitted by your specialties for possible work value increases

Why This Topic Matters

The piece helps readers understand a major valuation cycle that can affect relative work values, Medicare payment levels, and which specialties were most active in submitting services for review. It also outlines the broader CMS/RUC process and the expected timing of any payment impact.

Article Sections

1. RUC nominations and specialty submissions

   Summarizes the overall scope of the review list, the number of codes submitted, and the specialties involved. It also describes the role of the AMA RUC and CMS in the process.

2. Vascular and thoracic surgeons seek pay hikes

   Describes the submission patterns from two specialty societies and their broad interests in work value review. It also notes the general reasons some services were identified for reconsideration.

3. Reference codes cited by some specialties

   Explains that some specialties submitted reference codes alongside review candidates to provide comparison context. Several examples of commonly billed services are included to illustrate this approach.

4. CMS recommendations could result in more cuts than usual

   Discusses the separate set of codes recommended by CMS and the possibility that they could affect the balance of increases and decreases in the valuation review. It also notes which broad service categories were emphasized in those recommendations.

5. Work value changes would take effect in January 2007

   Outlines the timeline for the five-year review, from submission through CMS rulemaking and final implementation. It highlights the stages at which review, comment, and publication would occur.